The second national Social Impact in the Regions conference will be held in Kempsey, NSW 4-6 September this year.
Conference producer, Kerry Grace and Ready Communities co-founder Dr. Chad Renando have been working in the Kempsey community since February via the Ready Macleay program to ensure the local community is ready for, and really benefits through the big event which expects to attract 300 people to Kempsey and surrounds.
Ms Grace says;
“It’s important to us that the conference generates revenue in the local community supporting local hospitality and retail businesses, creative industries practitioners and growers. We have designed the conference so it is based in the Kempsey CBD and the delegates spend at least three days in the local community. Our estimate is the event will be worth around $840k to the local economy”
She says;
“It’s not only the businesses who deliver services that will benefit, this is an opportunity to put a spotlight on the Macleay with speakers representing philanthropy, government and influential non government organisations such as the Regional Australia Institute. This is the only regionally based event of its kind in Australia and we want the community to benefit through its’ delivery”
Kempsey Shire Council’s General Manager, Craig Milburn says;
“It’s very exciting for Kempsey to host this year’s Social Impact in the Regions Conference and Kempsey Shire Council is proud to sponsor an event that promises to invigorate our local economy, strengthen community bonds and spark initiatives tailored to our Shire’s unique challenges.
“The shire’s Community Strategic Plan sets out a vision to give our people the opportunities and infrastructure to build a safe, welcoming and sustainable community. This conference aligns with that and specifically Council’s Economic Development and Tourism strategy, with its emphasis on community-driven projects, cultural enrichment, empowerment of Indigenous communities and sustainable growth opportunities for our local businesses.”
Now it’s over to the community to get involved. There are numerous opportunities from hosting a billet to attending workshops and masterclasses via special local tickets, helping to make the main street vibrant and volunteering for the event.
Join us on 22nd August at the Bandbox theatre to learn more about Ready Macleay, Social Impact in the Regions and hear from local social enterprises and start-up businesses and an update from local organisation, Learning the Macleay.
Registrations appreciated: www.readycommunities.com.au (search for Ready Macleay and the Bandbox event)
Or get in touch via kerry@readycommunities.com.au
Contact Information
For more information, please contact:
Kerry Grace, Conference Producer
Social Impact in the Regions
Phone: 0404 88 7473
Email: kgrace@evolvenetwork.com.au
Website: www.socialimpactintheregions.com.au
